NICEVILLE, Fla. — Bluewater Bay Marina will hold its 2025 Christmas Boat Parade and Decorating Contest on Saturday, December 20, beginning at 5:30 p.m., according to the marina.
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The marina noted that this year marks the event’s 14th running, continuing a tradition that has become a holiday favorite on Rocky Bayou. A skippers’ meeting is set for 4 p.m., and boats must be fully decorated and registered before staging begins at 5 p.m.
The parade route will leave Bluewater Bay Marina, travel north to Nelson’s Cove, circle Rocky Bayou, continue south to the Rocky One marker, and return along the same path. A route map shows shoreline viewing areas and instructs captains to follow the lead boat to ensure spectators along the bayou can see each vessel.
The grand prize for the decorating contest is a $150 ship store credit. Second place includes a $50 LJ Schooners gift card and a bottle of wine, and third place is sponsored by Paradise Marketing, Events and Adventures, offering a $50 LJ Schooners gift card. Residents along the bayou are encouraged to host holiday gatherings as the decorated boats pass by.
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Registration is $30, payable by check to Sharing & Caring, or by donating 15 non-perishable food items. All donations will be delivered to Sharing & Caring to support local families.
A separate Slip Patrons Decorating Contest will take place on December 6, with judging in the slips at Bluewater Bay Marina. Awards include a $50 LJ Schooners gift card for the top decorated boat and one month of slip fees for the best decorated in-slip entry. Winners will be announced during the parade awards on December 20.
Holiday festivities at LJ Schooners Dockside Restaurant & Oyster Bar include a Christmas Party on Saturday, December 13, featuring DJ Chris Saylor from 6 to 10 p.m. and an Ugly Sweater Contest at 9 p.m. A Sunday Brunch with Santa is scheduled for December 21 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with photos from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., according to event information.
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More information is available at 850-897-2821 or at www.bluewaterbaymarina.com.
